United Democratic Front (UDF) former president Atupele Muluzi recently addressed a rally in Mangochi as a guest speaker, which left some officials within the party believing that the man, who resigned from active politics to concentrate on business errands, is attempting a comeback. Our News Analyst FRANK NAMANGALE caught up with Atupele.

Who organised the Mangochi rally and what was its purpose?

The Eastern Region committee invited the right honourable Lilian Patel as guest of honour, me as guest speaker and all UDF members to that rally that took place at St Augustine III Ground in Mangochi to commemorate 30 years of the party’s founding.

Atupele: I resigned as UDF president, but did
not quit as a party member

Are you interested to reclaim your position as UDF president?

I am yet to announce my candidacy for president. The UDF will soon be electing its office-bearers at a convention to be announced soon. All bona fide members are free to contest for any position, including that of president ahead of the 2025 Tripartite Elections.

What is your reaction to some officials within the party who are not comfortable with your possible comeback because you voluntarily resigned?

I resigned as president of UDF. I did not quit as a party member. I remain a bona fide member of the party.

UDF is a united party that believes in the fundamental principles of democracy, human rights and the rule of law. It has an indelible place in the country’s political history.

The Mangochi rally demonstrated to all Malawians that UDF is united, strong and ready to play its rightful role in the governance of the country. I see no reason why people should be uncomfortable with me.

We are in a democracy. It is the people who elect their leaders and they should be free to do so. That is the purpose of democracy. Why should anyone fear?

What is your advice to those concerned about your possible return to the helm?

Those that fear need to work harder to earn the confidence of voters. That is what democracy is all about.

What was your main message at the Mangochi rally?

As a politician, I am championing a reset button for a new Malawi to save lives of Malawians who are suffering. Malawians are getting poorer and wallowing in poverty under the Tonse Alliance administration.

The Tonse Alliance leadership has failed to take care of Malawians and the people of Malawi deserve better leadership come 2025.

Malawi chose democracy 30 years ago and this includes the right to choose leaders of their choice to run the country while improving people’s welfare. We owe this power to the people.

This means you have power, but it is unfortunate that there is nothing that is progressing in the country.

If you want change, it is possible if you can decide it in 2025. Malawi is engulfed with corruption. However, I have a hope that it is only UDF that can end all this. That is the message I am giving to Malawians.

What are your expectations from Malawians and what do you think should be the way forward?

All we need is to join hands and make the party strong again. We need to reclaim our glory and serve Malawians from the current problems.

The post Atupele opens up on feared return first appeared on The Nation Online.